Does it seem like more people are mumbling these days? Have you found it hard to follow conversations in social settings or restaurants? You may be experiencing hearing loss, and it’s important to get a hearing exam as soon as possible.
Hearing loss can cause a range of problems for older adults, including:
1
Communication difficulties: Hearing loss can make it difficult for older adults to communicate with others, leading to feelings of social isolation and loneliness.
2
Cognitive decline: Research has found a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, including
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
3
Depression and anxiety: Hearing loss can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety, as older adults may struggle to communicate with others and feel left out of social activities.
4
Falls and balance problems: Hearing loss can affect a person’s balance, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents.
5
Reduced quality of life: Hearing loss can impact a person’s overall quality of life, affecting their ability to enjoy social activities, engage with others, and participate in daily life.
6
Safety concerns: Hearing loss can make it difficult for older adults to hear important sounds, such as smoke alarms, car horns, and approaching vehicles, putting their safety at risk.
“Overall, hearing loss can have a significant impact on the lives of older adults,” said Right at Home Little Rock Metro owner Lauren Miller. “It can affect their physical health, emotional well-being, and social connectedness. We ensure that our professional caregivers are trained to recognize the signs and offer assistance that helps the client maintain their quality of life.”
A few ways Right at Home can help include:
1
Transportation to regular hearing check-ups: Hearing loss can happen very gradually, and you want to get appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
2
Provide health reminders to help clients manage any underlying health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can increase the risk of hearing loss.
3
Help clients stay active and engaged: Social isolation and cognitive decline have been linked to hearing loss. Stay active and engaged with social activities and cognitive exercises to help maintain your hearing and overall health.
Age-related hearing loss is not an inevitable part of aging. You don’t need to feel left out when you’re in a social setting or miss beautiful sounds such as your grandchildren’s laughter. Consider regular hearing exams to be as important as regular physical exams.
